Rolex Farr 40 World Championship on the horizon

At the Rolex Farr 40 World Championship, a fleet of fifteen Farr 40 yachts from eight countries and territories will contest the 16th edition. Racing commences next week, Tuesday 27 August.

Hosted for the third time in Newport, Rhode Island, the crowning event of the Farr 40 season always reserves fierce competition as rival teams vie for supremacy. Hitting the water fully focused is crucial. Over four days crews take on up to ten intense races where timing is paramount and mistakes mercilessly punished.

The defending champion is Helmut Jahn’s Flash Gordon 6 which won last year’s title in home waters on Lake Michigan, Chicago. Seven times in its 16 year history, the Rolex Farr 40 Worlds has been won by a boat competing in its native country or waters: a statistic that will inspire the seven-strong United States contingent. Equally, it will not deter the eight international challengers. Jahn and professional tactician Bill Hardesty are aiming to become the first crew to retain the championship since 2008.

The change of environment from Chicago to Newport ensures this year’s Championship will require a different tactical approach. 'Moving from fresh water to salt water and a different wave action will be a factor,' explains Geoff Stagg, Farr 40 Class Manager. 'We are delighted to be back in Newport. It is an iconic location and we are looking forward to working again with the New York Yacht Club.'

The form crew in the 2013 Farr 40 season is Jim Richardson’s Barking Mad, (USA) three-time winner of the World Championship and current leader of the Farr 40 international circuit. However, the trio of Enfant Terrible (ITA), Struntje Light (GER) and Charisma (MON) are also on top of their game and will provide formidable competition.

Consistent teamwork is paramount at the event. Each member of the crew has a defined role as explored in the accompanying infographic. The relationship between tactician and helmsman is one of the most crucial onboard. Among the world-renowned professional tacticians in attendance this year are Gavin Brady, Peter Holmberg, Terry Hutchinson, Chris Larson and Vasco Vascotto.

'Corinthian owners driving their own boats which are as identical as humanly possible with the best tacticians in the world guiding them,' is how Stagg describes the continued allure of the competition. 'The Rolex Farr 40 World Championship is the most closely-fought highly contested One Design event in the world.'

The 16th edition of the Championship, hosted by the New York Yacht Club, looks as competitive as ever with 15 skilled and determined teams all with a chance of glory.